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Tips in Securing Data Stored in a Cloud

Posted by Jamison on 10 05 2016.

Private cloud computing is the least vulnerable to attacks. In the four types of location-based cloud computing, the public cloud has the most potential of being targeted for cyber attacks or malicious infiltration. But this does not mean you have to opt out on public cloud computing as there are plenty to do in order to secure your data and other crucial information.

In public cloud computing, several organizations or businesses share with the same server for storing or retrieving data, information, applications and tools. The servers are located on the data centers of the cloud-hosting service providers. To have the peace of mind in using public cloud, the following tips can be of help.

Do Local Backup

Whenever you use the computer and electronic devices or the Internet, the rule is to do a backup on your files; and using cloud is no excuse. Having electronic copies of your data allows you to access them even when you lost the original or even when it gets corrupted. Individuals and even companies store electronic copies of their files in the cloud.

But if you use the cloud for storing or retrieving data, the best way you can protect the data is to do a manual backup and save it in external device like hard disks or thumb drive.

Sensitive Data Should Not Be Stored In Public Clouds

The problem with public clouds is that it is not secure because the servers are shared with other individuals, businesses or organizations. So if you are using a public cloud, asses the kind of information you are storing. Data crucial to your business operations, or critical to your identity or assets must not be stored in a public cloud.

Companies engaged in financial services or retail use private cloud in processing transactions, as the servers dedicated for such data are exclusive to such company or enterprise.

Choose Cloud Service Providers Encrypt Data

Data encryption offers additional security to your data. So if you are looking for cloud computing service provider, choose the one that provides local encryption. Decryption of data is required whenever you need to access them. Data encryption even protects you from cloud providers or administrators. Encryption of data may also be possible during the uploading or downloading processes. Better yet, the data should already be encrypted before they are stored into the cloud.

Use Two-Step Verification

Another way to secure your data stored in public cloud computing is through the use of two-step verification, which is already implemented even in e-mail clients. Two-step verification involves the use of a mobile phone. Choose a password that is uncommon and alpha-numeric. Experts even advise on using phrases or combination of certain words in creating a password.

Use Anti-Spy & Anti-Virus Software

The cloud computing service providers offer security in using their clouds, including the public. However, the culprit may not really have to directly attack the server or the cloud; suspicious activity may actually come from the computers you are using to access your cloud. So secure your computers with competent anti-spy and anti-virus software.